Lobby

Homegrown Gratitude

The Michigan Theater has a deep appreciation
for the contributors to its growth, and for the Ann Arbor community that
it serves so well. Plaques and pictures in the different lobbies remind
visitors of the commitment and dedication that has saved, restored, and
maintained the theater.

The hallway to the Screening Room includes
the Ford Gallery of Ann Arbor Founders, a fascinating collection of
historical facts and images. You'll learn such things as where the "Ann"
in Ann Arbor came from and what other movie theaters used to be in the
city. You'll also see the lettering from the 1950's-era marquee that generated
feelings of nostalgia when it was replaced by the current marquee.

The Michigan has shown much support for
U.S. military veterans. Admission for veterans is discounted, and sometimes
free of charge. Donations for currently serving soldiers have been collected.

Independent filmmakers are always welcome
at the Michigan. The annual Ann Arbor Film Festival has achieved such
prominence that a compilation of its highlights travels to other art film
theaters. The Cinetopia International Film Festival gathers films from
different film festivals and also includes guest appearances by filmmakers.

Participants in summer film camps get to
see their work projected on the big screen. Films and audience discussions
often go together, like at a screening of the documentary Refusing
to Be Enemies, about the relationships among 12 women of Jewish or
Arabic descent.

An immediate feeling of community is vibrantly
felt in the theater between movies. The Michigan straddles the boundary
between the University of Michigan campus and
downtown Ann Arbor, so there's always a mixture of townspeople and UM
students in attendance. The Grand Foyer often becomes a lively, impromptu
meeting place for people going to and coming from one of the three auditoriums.

Under the warm glow of the Michigan marquee,
the intersection of sidewalk strollers with filmgoers stirs up friendly
encounters. As you head out into the hustle and bustle of the city streets,
your experience at the Michigan is already becoming a pleasant memory.